33+ Other Ways to Say “Long Time No See”

Finding the right words to greet someone after a long time apart can truly make a world of difference in how your message is received.

Whether you’re writing an essay, report, or personal letter, expressing warmth and care through your language shows attentiveness and helps strengthen the connection with your reader.

The common phrase “Long Time No See” is often used as a casual and friendly way to reconnect, but it may not always maintain a professional tone. This guide offers 33+ thoughtful alternatives that convey empathy and sincerity, tailored for different settings, adding personality and impact to your writing.

What Does “Long Time No See” Mean?

“Long Time No See” is a casual, friendly phrase used to acknowledge that it’s been a while since you last saw someone. It expresses surprise or happiness at reconnecting after time apart.

When to Use “Long Time No See”

This phrase fits informal settings like catching up with friends, family, or acquaintances where a relaxed, conversational tone is welcome. It’s great for face-to-face chats or casual messages.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Long Time No See”?

While friendly, “Long Time No See” may sound too informal in professional or formal communication. Consider warmer yet polished alternatives like “It’s been a while” or “I hope you’ve been well” to suit diverse contexts.

1. Long Time No See

Meaning: A warm and casual way to acknowledge a long gap since the last interaction.
Definition: A phrase that expresses recognition of time passed without contact.
Tone: Friendly, informal, nostalgic.
Example: “Long time no see! How have you been keeping?”
Explanation: This phrase works well to break the ice and reestablish familiarity, making the reader feel remembered.
Purpose and Personalization: Use this to create a relaxed, conversational tone. Adjust by softening with a follow-up question for professional contexts.

2. It’s Been Ages

Meaning: Highlights the significant amount of time since your last connection.
Definition: A colloquial way to say it has been a very long time.
Tone: Playful, lighthearted.
Example: “It’s been ages! I’m so happy to hear from you.”
Explanation: This phrase conveys enthusiasm and light humor, showing genuine joy at reconnecting.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for informal writing. In formal contexts, replace with “It has been quite some time.”

3. I’m Delighted to Reconnect

Meaning: Expresses sincere happiness about reestablishing communication.
Definition: A polite and heartfelt way to acknowledge renewed contact.
Tone: Warm, professional, appreciative.
Example: “I’m delighted to reconnect after so long.”
Explanation: This phrase fosters positivity and respect, helping bridge any time gap smoothly.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for business or formal writing. Adjust the level of formality based on the relationship.

4. So Nice to Hear from You Again

Meaning: Shows genuine pleasure at receiving communication after a pause.
Definition: A phrase that warmly welcomes a renewed dialogue.
Tone: Warm, thoughtful.
Example: “So nice to hear from you again! I’ve missed our chats.”
Explanation: It reassures the reader that their outreach is appreciated and welcomed.
Purpose and Personalization: Use to convey warmth; soften further with a personal anecdote if appropriate.

5. What a Wonderful Surprise

Meaning: Highlights unexpected joy at reconnecting after time apart.
Definition: A phrase that conveys positive surprise at renewed contact.
Tone: Cheerful, enthusiastic.
Example: “What a wonderful surprise to hear from you after so long!”
Explanation: This makes the other person feel valued and their message meaningful.
Purpose and Personalization: Suitable for both personal and semi-formal settings. Pair with a question about them to personalize further.

6. It’s Been a While

Meaning: A simple way to acknowledge a gap in communication.
Definition: A neutral phrase marking time passed.
Tone: Friendly, conversational.
Example: “It’s been a while—how have you been?”
Explanation: Opens dialogue without focusing too much on the gap.
Purpose and Personalization: Works well in most settings. Add warmth by mentioning something specific from the past.

7. I Haven’t Seen You in Ages

Meaning: Highlights how long it has been since your last interaction.
Definition: An informal way to express that a lot of time has passed.
Tone: Playful, friendly.
Example: “I haven’t seen you in ages! This is such a nice surprise.”
Explanation: Conveys genuine excitement at reconnecting.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for casual notes. In formal writing, consider “It’s been quite some time.”

8. It’s Great to Reconnect

Meaning: Expresses happiness at renewing contact.
Definition: A warm phrase for restarting communication.
Tone: Positive, open.
Example: “It’s great to reconnect after all this time.”
Explanation: Reinforces that renewed communication is welcome.
Purpose and Personalization: Works across contexts; tailor by adding a shared memory or project reference.

9. I’m So Glad We Could Catch Up

Meaning: Expresses gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect.
Definition: A phrase showing appreciation for renewed contact.
Tone: Warm, appreciative.
Example: “I’m so glad we could catch up—it’s been far too long.”
Explanation: Strengthens connection by showing value in the interaction.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a comment on what you’ve missed to personalize.

Read more: Other Ways to Say “Time Management”

10. It’s Been Too Long

Meaning: Acknowledges a longer-than-desired time apart.
Definition: A phrase to express regret at the time gap.
Tone: Regretful yet warm.
Example: “It’s been too long let’s not let that happen again!”
Explanation: Encourages more regular contact moving forward.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a positive plan or suggestion to stay in touch.

11. How Have You Been?

Meaning: Seeks an update on the person’s well-being.
Definition: A polite inquiry into someone’s status after time apart.
Tone: Caring, thoughtful.
Example: “How have you been since we last spoke?”
Explanation: Invites open dialogue and shows genuine interest.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a reference to a past event or shared experience.

12. It’s Wonderful to See You Again

Meaning: Expresses sincere happiness at reconnecting.
Definition: A kind phrase acknowledging joy at seeing someone after time apart.
Tone: Warm, sincere.
Example: “It’s wonderful to see you again after so long!”
Explanation: Reinforces positivity in reconnection.
Purpose and Personalization: Fit for formal or casual use; adjust tone to match context.

13. I’ve Missed Our Conversations

Meaning: Shows that the connection was valued and missed.
Definition: Expresses appreciation for past communication.
Tone: Sentimental, genuine.
Example: “I’ve missed our conversations—so glad we’re chatting again.”
Explanation: Reminds the reader of the importance of your bond.
Purpose and Personalization: Works best in personal writing; mention what you missed most.

14. It’s a Pleasure to See You Again

Meaning: Courteously expresses happiness at reconnecting.
Definition: A polite way to greet someone after time apart.
Tone: Formal, respectful.
Example: “It’s a pleasure to see you again after so long.”
Explanation: Conveys respect and warmth simultaneously.
Purpose and Personalization: Best in formal writing; soften by adding a warm comment.

15. It’s Been a While Since We Last Spoke

Meaning: Notes the time passed since the last conversation.
Definition: A neutral way to acknowledge time apart.
Tone: Balanced, thoughtful.
Example: “It’s been a while since we last spoke—how have things been?”
Explanation: Opens space for updates without focusing on the gap.
Purpose and Personalization: Follow with a specific inquiry for warmth.

16. Good to See You After All This Time

Meaning: Highlights the pleasantness of reconnecting.
Definition: Expresses joy at seeing someone again.
Tone: Warm, welcoming.
Example: “Good to see you after all this time!”
Explanation: Strengthens positive sentiment on reconnecting.
Purpose and Personalization: Pair with a shared memory for a personal touch.

17. It’s Been Quite Some Time

Meaning: Acknowledges the time that has passed.
Definition: A polite note of time apart.
Tone: Neutral, reflective.
Example: “It’s been quite some time since our last meeting.”
Explanation: Sets the stage for renewed conversation.
Purpose and Personalization: Adapt by adding context or shared project reference.

18. I’m Happy We’re Reconnecting

Meaning: Shares positivity about reestablishing contact.
Definition: A phrase of gratitude for renewed communication.
Tone: Warm, positive.
Example: “I’m happy we’re reconnecting after so long.”
Explanation: Encourages ongoing communication.
Purpose and Personalization: Personalize by mentioning what drew you back together.

19. It’s Been a Pleasure to Catch Up

Meaning: Expresses satisfaction with the reconnection.
Definition: A courteous wrap-up or comment on the conversation.
Tone: Appreciative, polite.
Example: “It’s been a pleasure to catch up—let’s not wait so long next time.”
Explanation: Leaves a positive impression.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a plan for future contact to personalize.

20. It’s Been Too Long Since Our Last Meeting

Meaning: Emphasizes the extended gap since last seeing someone.
Definition: Notes the undesired length of time apart.
Tone: Warm, slightly regretful.
Example: “It’s been too long since our last meeting—we must change that.”
Explanation: Encourages reconnection efforts.
Purpose and Personalization: Follow with a plan or invitation.

21. It’s Good to Be in Touch Again

Meaning: Shares appreciation for reestablished communication.
Definition: A positive phrase about renewed contact.
Tone: Warm, balanced.
Example: “It’s good to be in touch again—I’ve missed this.”
Explanation: Expresses gratitude without focusing on the gap.
Purpose and Personalization: Add context about why reconnecting matters.

22. It’s a Pleasure to Reconnect

Meaning: A respectful way to express joy at renewed contact.
Definition: Polite phrase acknowledging reconnection.
Tone: Professional, warm.
Example: “It’s a pleasure to reconnect after so long.”
Explanation: Suits formal settings while remaining warm.
Purpose and Personalization: Adjust formality as needed.

23. How Wonderful to See You Again

Meaning: Shows genuine delight at reconnecting.
Definition: A phrase expressing happiness at renewed interaction.
Tone: Enthusiastic, sincere.
Example: “How wonderful to see you again after all this time!”
Explanation: Reinforces the value of the relationship.
Purpose and Personalization: Personalize with a compliment or memory.

24. It’s Been So Long!

Meaning: Emphasizes surprise at the time passed.
Definition: A casual phrase highlighting the long gap.
Tone: Playful, informal.
Example: “It’s been so long! Let’s catch up properly.”
Explanation: Conveys excitement.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a plan for follow-up or future meeting.

25. I’ve Been Looking Forward to This

Meaning: Shows anticipation for reconnecting.
Definition: A phrase expressing that reconnection was desired.
Tone: Positive, thoughtful.
Example: “I’ve been looking forward to this chance to reconnect.”
Explanation: Highlights value placed on reconnection.
Purpose and Personalization: Personalize by sharing why you looked forward.

26. Great to See You Again After Such a Long Time

Meaning: Expresses happiness at reconnecting after time apart.
Definition: A warm greeting after a long gap.
Tone: Friendly, welcoming.
Example: “Great to see you again after such a long time!”
Explanation: Strengthens bonds by highlighting joy at reconnecting.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a personal note about what you’ve missed.

27. I’m Happy We Could Reconnect

Meaning: Expresses gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect.
Definition: A warm acknowledgment of renewed contact.
Tone: Appreciative, sincere.
Example: “I’m happy we could reconnect today.”
Explanation: Fosters positive rapport.
Purpose and Personalization: Tailor with context or future plans.

28. It’s Good to See You After Such a Long Break

Meaning: Acknowledges a long time apart while expressing warmth.
Definition: A phrase noting time apart in a positive way.
Tone: Friendly, considerate.
Example: “It’s good to see you after such a long break.”
Explanation: Reassures and welcomes the reader.
Purpose and Personalization: Add a shared topic or memory.

See Also: Other Ways to Say “Does That Make Sense”

29. I’m Glad We Could Touch Base Again

Meaning: Expresses satisfaction at renewed contact.
Definition: A phrase that highlights the value of reconnecting.
Tone: Professional, warm.
Example: “I’m glad we could touch base again after all this time.”
Explanation: Shows value placed on communication.
Purpose and Personalization: Adjust formality depending on the relationship.

30. I’m Pleased to Have the Opportunity to Catch Up

Meaning: Shares gratitude for the chance to reconnect.
Definition: A formal way to express appreciation for contact.
Tone: Professional, courteous.
Example: “I’m pleased to have the opportunity to catch up with you today.”
Explanation: Encourages continued dialogue.
Purpose and Personalization: Use for formal contexts; soften with personal details.

31. How Nice to See You Again

Meaning: Expresses pleasant surprise at seeing someone again.
Definition: A warm greeting after time apart.
Tone: Warm, polite.
Example: “How nice to see you again after all this time.”
Explanation: Reinforces positive sentiment.
Purpose and Personalization: Add context to deepen connection.

32. It’s Been So Good to Catch Up

Meaning: Expresses satisfaction with the reconnection.
Definition: A phrase showing that the reconnection was enjoyable.
Tone: Appreciative, friendly.
Example: “It’s been so good to catch up—let’s not wait so long next time.”
Explanation: Leaves a positive closing.
Purpose and Personalization: Follow with an invitation or plan.

33. It’s Great to Reconnect After a While

Meaning: Highlights joy at reconnecting after time apart.
Definition: A warm phrase marking renewed contact.
Tone: Friendly, positive.
Example: “It’s great to reconnect after a while!”
Explanation: Fosters a welcoming atmosphere.
Purpose and Personalization: Adjust tone to fit the formality of the relationship.

34. It’s Been a Pleasure to Meet Again

Meaning: Expresses polite satisfaction at reconnecting.
Definition: A respectful closing remark after renewed contact.
Tone: Courteous, formal.
Example: “It’s been a pleasure to meet again and catch up.”
Explanation: Leaves a positive and respectful impression.
Purpose and Personalization: Suitable for formal writing; soften with shared details.

35. It’s Wonderful to Reconnect After Some Time

Meaning: Expresses happiness at renewed connection.
Definition: A warm phrase marking reconnection.
Tone: Positive, sincere.
Example: “It’s wonderful to reconnect after some time apart.”
Explanation: Reinforces goodwill and strengthens rapport.
Purpose and Personalization: Add personal context or a shared memory for more warmth.

Conclusion

Choosing the right alternative to “long time no see” empowers you to build authentic connections through thoughtful language. Whether you’re crafting personal letters, blog posts, or professional emails, using warm, tailored phrases can strengthen relationships and express genuine care.

I encourage you to explore these creative greetings in your own writing to leave a lasting impact. This guide was crafted to help you communicate with sincerity. I hope it inspires meaningful exchanges. Try these fresh expressions today, and feel free to revisit this post whenever you need a spark of inspiration!